Domestic Abuse Counselling in Edinburgh

Photo of Roberta Dutra, MBACP, Counsellor
Roberta Dutra
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10
Most of my experience comes from supporting people that has experienced emotional, verbal, physical and sexual abuse.
Hello! I am Roberta, a qualified counsellor, originally from Brazil, but based in Edinburgh for over 16 years.  I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). My approach is based on the core principles of trauma informed practice meaning that I work with a non-hierarchical framework focusing on the principles of safety, trust, choice, collaboration, empowerment and cultural consideration. I am caring, compassionate and genuinely interested in listening to each of my client’s personal experience with the understanding that each individual is unique. I respect each person’s uniqueness and provide a safe space to explore goals.
Most of my experience comes from supporting people that has experienced emotional, verbal, physical and sexual abuse.
Hello! I am Roberta, a qualified counsellor, originally from Brazil, but based in Edinburgh for over 16 years.  I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). My approach is based on the core principles of trauma informed practice meaning that I work with a non-hierarchical framework focusing on the principles of safety, trust, choice, collaboration, empowerment and cultural consideration. I am caring, compassionate and genuinely interested in listening to each of my client’s personal experience with the understanding that each individual is unique. I respect each person’s uniqueness and provide a safe space to explore goals.
01934 311356 View 01934 311356
Photo of Robert John Margetson, MBACP, Counsellor
Robert John Margetson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH6  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed by life. Does it feel like all your thoughts and feelings are like a ball of tangled spaghetti. Anxiety, depression and lots of other issues could be entwined. Counselling can help you to un-tangle that ball, help you to understand your thoughts and feelings. I am a qualified, Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, working within Leith, Edinburgh area. I work with a wide range of issues and specialise in working with Domestic abuse issues. My approach to counselling is based on the belief that healthy emotional well-being is created within safe, nurturing and caring relationships.
Do you feel overwhelmed by life. Does it feel like all your thoughts and feelings are like a ball of tangled spaghetti. Anxiety, depression and lots of other issues could be entwined. Counselling can help you to un-tangle that ball, help you to understand your thoughts and feelings. I am a qualified, Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, working within Leith, Edinburgh area. I work with a wide range of issues and specialise in working with Domestic abuse issues. My approach to counselling is based on the belief that healthy emotional well-being is created within safe, nurturing and caring relationships.
0131 381 0144 View 0131 381 0144
Photo of Nicoletta Katseniou, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicoletta Katseniou
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH6
Some of the issues I have supported clients explore include anxiety and panic, depression, loss, low self-esteem and CPTSD, in particular domestic abuse.
Hello and welcome! I'm Nicoletta, a qualified therapist based in Edinburgh, Scotland. I offer in-person or online sessions if you prefer the comfort of your own space. My approach is based on the core principles of trauma-informed practice which means that I work within a non-hierarchical framework that offers safety, choices, collaboration, trustworthiness and transparency. As we do not live in a vacuum, I firmly believe in the importance of exploring sociocultural, environmental and economic factors that contribute to the origin and maintenance of psychological distress.
Some of the issues I have supported clients explore include anxiety and panic, depression, loss, low self-esteem and CPTSD, in particular domestic abuse.
Hello and welcome! I'm Nicoletta, a qualified therapist based in Edinburgh, Scotland. I offer in-person or online sessions if you prefer the comfort of your own space. My approach is based on the core principles of trauma-informed practice which means that I work within a non-hierarchical framework that offers safety, choices, collaboration, trustworthiness and transparency. As we do not live in a vacuum, I firmly believe in the importance of exploring sociocultural, environmental and economic factors that contribute to the origin and maintenance of psychological distress.
0131 381 8957 View 0131 381 8957
Photo of Monika Burzykowska, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Monika Burzykowska
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH1
Areas of support: PTSD, Burnout, Trauma survivors, Survivor of abuse, Survivor of harassment, Survivor of neglect, Anger management, Dealing with loss, Depression, Feeling/being stuck.
Follow me therapy provides creative psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. The creative approach allows for the freedom of expression and safety in the therapeutic relationship. It engages the mind, cognitive understanding of the world, emotions and the body. There is a possibility for a face to face and on-line set of sessions.
Areas of support: PTSD, Burnout, Trauma survivors, Survivor of abuse, Survivor of harassment, Survivor of neglect, Anger management, Dealing with loss, Depression, Feeling/being stuck.
Follow me therapy provides creative psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. The creative approach allows for the freedom of expression and safety in the therapeutic relationship. It engages the mind, cognitive understanding of the world, emotions and the body. There is a possibility for a face to face and on-line set of sessions.
01202 059155 View 01202 059155
Photo of Virginia Messina, MBACP, Counsellor
Virginia Messina
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH11  (Online Only)
Recovering from a relational abuse is truly a spiritual recovery and I can't wait to facilitate yours.
Welcome to this page. I am Virginia, an experienced psychotherapeutic counsellor, passionate for supporting clients who have experienced abuse in meaningful relationships, whether parental or romantic. I work with individuals ready to rebuild own self-esteem, trust with themselves and create safe, fulfilling, and reciprocal connections. I am an individual who thrives when doing the deep work, surface-level chatting are just good for a friday night. Therefore, if you are ready to roll up your sleeves, get dirty, and take accountability for your own wellbeing, I would love to hear from you. Let's arrange a consultation!
Recovering from a relational abuse is truly a spiritual recovery and I can't wait to facilitate yours.
Welcome to this page. I am Virginia, an experienced psychotherapeutic counsellor, passionate for supporting clients who have experienced abuse in meaningful relationships, whether parental or romantic. I work with individuals ready to rebuild own self-esteem, trust with themselves and create safe, fulfilling, and reciprocal connections. I am an individual who thrives when doing the deep work, surface-level chatting are just good for a friday night. Therefore, if you are ready to roll up your sleeves, get dirty, and take accountability for your own wellbeing, I would love to hear from you. Let's arrange a consultation!
01453 702647 View 01453 702647
Photo of Mairi McAllister, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Mairi McAllister
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH1
I work with anyone who struggles with life as a result of Trauma, you may have experienced abuse as a child or adult, or you may have had what appears to be a 'happy' or 'normal' childhood but were not seen, heard or valued. As a result you might struggle with confidence, self esteem, relationships, work or being a parent. You may be depressed, anxious, live with fear or with issues around addiction, eating or self harm. You may have physical issues, our minds and body's are both affected by Trauma and its common to have issues like fibromyalgia or ME, some struggle with ADD traits and feel overwhelmed or dissociated, your not alone
I work with anyone who struggles with life as a result of Trauma, you may have experienced abuse as a child or adult, or you may have had what appears to be a 'happy' or 'normal' childhood but were not seen, heard or valued. As a result you might struggle with confidence, self esteem, relationships, work or being a parent. You may be depressed, anxious, live with fear or with issues around addiction, eating or self harm. You may have physical issues, our minds and body's are both affected by Trauma and its common to have issues like fibromyalgia or ME, some struggle with ADD traits and feel overwhelmed or dissociated, your not alone
01592 323042 View 01592 323042
Photo of Paula Kane, MBACP, Counsellor
Paula Kane
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH1
We will explore the cycle of abuse, and this will help you understand why you couldn't leave the relationship, and why the abuse wasn't your fault.
Have you been in abusive relationship after abusive relationship and wonder why you can't seem to find a partner who will treat you well and respect you? Do you worry that you won't be able to have a healthy relationship? Perhaps you find yourself prioritising others needs over your own and feel that you come last in all your relationships throughout your life. Do you wish you could set boundaries with others, and have the ability to ask for what you want without feeling guilty?
We will explore the cycle of abuse, and this will help you understand why you couldn't leave the relationship, and why the abuse wasn't your fault.
Have you been in abusive relationship after abusive relationship and wonder why you can't seem to find a partner who will treat you well and respect you? Do you worry that you won't be able to have a healthy relationship? Perhaps you find yourself prioritising others needs over your own and feel that you come last in all your relationships throughout your life. Do you wish you could set boundaries with others, and have the ability to ask for what you want without feeling guilty?
028 9433 8832 View 028 9433 8832
Photo of Sivadharshinie (Dharshi) Chelvendra - Leap Psychological Services, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Leap Psychological Services
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH7
Dharshi has considerable experience of working with adults (age 16+) with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, mental and physical abuse, self-esteem, body image issues, grief, life transitions and relationship difficulties.
Life can throw you a curveball when you least expect it. From day-to-day issues to unforeseen crises and mental health difficulties; many obstacles can stop you from pursuing your dreams. These situations can be hard to deal with alone. That is why Leap Psychological Services offer face-to-face and online psychological wellbeing therapies/counselling and life and personal coaching services. Covering the United Kingdom and the rest of the world, we work with both individuals and groups and can work in various languages. We team up with trusted independent psychological wellbeing practitioners, life and personal coaches worldwide.
Dharshi has considerable experience of working with adults (age 16+) with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, mental and physical abuse, self-esteem, body image issues, grief, life transitions and relationship difficulties.
Life can throw you a curveball when you least expect it. From day-to-day issues to unforeseen crises and mental health difficulties; many obstacles can stop you from pursuing your dreams. These situations can be hard to deal with alone. That is why Leap Psychological Services offer face-to-face and online psychological wellbeing therapies/counselling and life and personal coaching services. Covering the United Kingdom and the rest of the world, we work with both individuals and groups and can work in various languages. We team up with trusted independent psychological wellbeing practitioners, life and personal coaches worldwide.
0131 322 1691 View 0131 322 1691
Photo of Sandra Cunniffe, MA, BACP, Counsellor
Sandra Cunniffe
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH12
Fàilte! Welcome! My name is Sandra and I am a person-centred / psychodynamic counsellor. If you are looking at this, there is probably something in your life that is causing you concern, distress or anxiety and you would like to change it in some way. Almost all of us experience times in our lives when we feel low. There are many issues that can affect our well-being, our confidence and how we relate to others. There could be any number of reasons for feeling unhappy or discontent. It could be grief, loss, trauma, abuse or relationship issues. It could be that you do not know why you feel as you do.
Fàilte! Welcome! My name is Sandra and I am a person-centred / psychodynamic counsellor. If you are looking at this, there is probably something in your life that is causing you concern, distress or anxiety and you would like to change it in some way. Almost all of us experience times in our lives when we feel low. There are many issues that can affect our well-being, our confidence and how we relate to others. There could be any number of reasons for feeling unhappy or discontent. It could be grief, loss, trauma, abuse or relationship issues. It could be that you do not know why you feel as you do.
0131 381 8802 View 0131 381 8802
Photo of Angela McLachlan, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Angela McLachlan
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH12
I specialise in working with childhood trauma, abuse, complex trauma, anxiety and depression, as well as relational issues, low self esteem, addiction and grief.
Have you had a recent difficult experience? Or maybe you are going through something painful just now? Perhaps you feel stuck and unable to move forward? It can often be difficult to understand feelings such as anxiety, overwhelm, panic, distress, fear, immobilisation, anger or sadness. Working collaboratively with you, at your own pace, I can help you process your feelings and faciliate a deeper and compassionate understanding of your current situation. In exploring and talking about both your present and past experiences and memories, I can offer you a safe and calming space to help you move forward.
I specialise in working with childhood trauma, abuse, complex trauma, anxiety and depression, as well as relational issues, low self esteem, addiction and grief.
Have you had a recent difficult experience? Or maybe you are going through something painful just now? Perhaps you feel stuck and unable to move forward? It can often be difficult to understand feelings such as anxiety, overwhelm, panic, distress, fear, immobilisation, anger or sadness. Working collaboratively with you, at your own pace, I can help you process your feelings and faciliate a deeper and compassionate understanding of your current situation. In exploring and talking about both your present and past experiences and memories, I can offer you a safe and calming space to help you move forward.
0131 381 1458 View 0131 381 1458
Photo of Maritxu Arlegui, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Maritxu Arlegui
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH10  (Online Only)
My trauma-informed approach includes specialist training in domestic violence, childhood trauma, and sexual trauma.
Did you grow up feeling like you didn't fit in, always sensing you were different but unsure why? You might not recall experiencing anything you'd consider traumatic, but you still felt invisible, misunderstood, or perhaps like you were too much. Friendships may have ended suddenly or without clear reasons, adding to your confusion. As an adult, you've figured out how to blend in at work and in social situations, concealing your differences, but at the cost of losing touch with yourself. Now, you struggle to identify your needs until the overwhelm sets in. You're tired of feeling this way and want to be seen and heard. I can help.
My trauma-informed approach includes specialist training in domestic violence, childhood trauma, and sexual trauma.
Did you grow up feeling like you didn't fit in, always sensing you were different but unsure why? You might not recall experiencing anything you'd consider traumatic, but you still felt invisible, misunderstood, or perhaps like you were too much. Friendships may have ended suddenly or without clear reasons, adding to your confusion. As an adult, you've figured out how to blend in at work and in social situations, concealing your differences, but at the cost of losing touch with yourself. Now, you struggle to identify your needs until the overwhelm sets in. You're tired of feeling this way and want to be seen and heard. I can help.
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Photo of Cassie Pryde, MBACP, Counsellor
Cassie Pryde
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH3
Hi, I’m Cassie. My practice style is genuine, warm and most importantly - human! I believe that people find healing through the connections they build in relationships. However, for many people, current relationships don’t provide the conditions required to unpack and process their challenges. As a therapist, I've supported individuals addressing issues like depression, anxiety, life transitions, family dynamics, and trauma survival, including sexual and domestic abuse.
Hi, I’m Cassie. My practice style is genuine, warm and most importantly - human! I believe that people find healing through the connections they build in relationships. However, for many people, current relationships don’t provide the conditions required to unpack and process their challenges. As a therapist, I've supported individuals addressing issues like depression, anxiety, life transitions, family dynamics, and trauma survival, including sexual and domestic abuse.
0131 381 4510 View 0131 381 4510
Photo of Tina Cameron - Cameron Counselling, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Cameron Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10
I am an experienced, well-qualified counsellor with a diploma in counselling and psychotherapy with an additional qualification for young people. I work in a warm and gentle way, offering a safe place for you to talk about the things that are troubling you. I see people struggling with a broad range of problems, e.g. anxiety, depression, low self esteem and other experiences that overwhelm them. I can help you through loss and grieving, cope with issues relating to abortion, sexual abuse, domestic abuse and so on. I work with people with eating disorders and body image issues. I am trained to work with people who are suicidal. ©
I am an experienced, well-qualified counsellor with a diploma in counselling and psychotherapy with an additional qualification for young people. I work in a warm and gentle way, offering a safe place for you to talk about the things that are troubling you. I see people struggling with a broad range of problems, e.g. anxiety, depression, low self esteem and other experiences that overwhelm them. I can help you through loss and grieving, cope with issues relating to abortion, sexual abuse, domestic abuse and so on. I work with people with eating disorders and body image issues. I am trained to work with people who are suicidal. ©
0131 357 6341 View 0131 357 6341
Photo of Cynthia Rocio Gimenez Payo - Cynthia Gimenez, MSc, BACP, Counsellor
Cynthia Gimenez
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH11  (Online Only)
Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when dealing with anxiety, depression, or the impact of past trauma. If you're struggling with relationship issues, low self-esteem, addiction, or a variety of other challenges, I’m here to help. I offer a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your experiences and develop strategies for healing and empowerment. With a professional history in trauma-focused and supportive roles, I have particular expertise in helping women who have experienced domestic abuse or interpersonal violence.
Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when dealing with anxiety, depression, or the impact of past trauma. If you're struggling with relationship issues, low self-esteem, addiction, or a variety of other challenges, I’m here to help. I offer a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your experiences and develop strategies for healing and empowerment. With a professional history in trauma-focused and supportive roles, I have particular expertise in helping women who have experienced domestic abuse or interpersonal violence.
0131 381 1409 View 0131 381 1409
Photo of Neliona Moutsou, MBACP, Counsellor
Neliona Moutsou
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH1
A warm welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. I am Neliona, a trauma and anxiety counsellor based in the city centre of Edinburgh. In a welcoming, safe, compassionate,nurturing environment, I will be your companion through this tough process of putting the pieces of your life and your self back together. One piece at a time we can work together towards healing, self love and wholeness. In my years of experience I have worked with anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, abuse, work related stress and personal growth. I have had extensive experience in working with anxiety and trauma and have made these two my areas of expertise.
A warm welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. I am Neliona, a trauma and anxiety counsellor based in the city centre of Edinburgh. In a welcoming, safe, compassionate,nurturing environment, I will be your companion through this tough process of putting the pieces of your life and your self back together. One piece at a time we can work together towards healing, self love and wholeness. In my years of experience I have worked with anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, abuse, work related stress and personal growth. I have had extensive experience in working with anxiety and trauma and have made these two my areas of expertise.
0131 510 3987 View 0131 510 3987
Photo of Dr Christoph Zwolan, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Christoph Zwolan
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH7
I specialize in working with adults dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, low self-esteem, and abuse.
As a Senior Counselling Psychologist and Psychedelic Integration Therapist, I specialize in preparing and guiding individuals through psychedelic experiences. Whether you've had them before or are planning to, I can help you approach these states with a healthy mindset and integrate the insights gained into your daily life. I can assist in making sense of these ambiguous experiences and offer psychotherapy to address any challenges or concerns you may have. Let me help you on your path to personal growth and transformation.
I specialize in working with adults dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, low self-esteem, and abuse.
As a Senior Counselling Psychologist and Psychedelic Integration Therapist, I specialize in preparing and guiding individuals through psychedelic experiences. Whether you've had them before or are planning to, I can help you approach these states with a healthy mindset and integrate the insights gained into your daily life. I can assist in making sense of these ambiguous experiences and offer psychotherapy to address any challenges or concerns you may have. Let me help you on your path to personal growth and transformation.
01764 915828 View 01764 915828
Photo of Gabriele Razmute, MBACP, Counsellor
Gabriele Razmute
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH6
Experienced in supporting persons who struggle with the following: abuse, anxiety, bereavement, childhood abuse, childhood sexual abuse, depression, eating disorders, health related issues, loss, mental health issues, PTSD, trauma and etc.
“Whoever you are, no matter how lonely, the world offers itself to your imagination, calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting – over and over announcing your place in the family of things" (Mary Oliver). Sometimes when difficult feelings takes over us it can be hard to hear that song of the world which brings a sense of belonging. Have you been struggling in your life? Let’s have a chat and see if we can resolve it together!
Experienced in supporting persons who struggle with the following: abuse, anxiety, bereavement, childhood abuse, childhood sexual abuse, depression, eating disorders, health related issues, loss, mental health issues, PTSD, trauma and etc.
“Whoever you are, no matter how lonely, the world offers itself to your imagination, calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting – over and over announcing your place in the family of things" (Mary Oliver). Sometimes when difficult feelings takes over us it can be hard to hear that song of the world which brings a sense of belonging. Have you been struggling in your life? Let’s have a chat and see if we can resolve it together!
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Photo of Russell Counselling, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Russell Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH1
I know that the decision to seek therapy and to find a suitable therapist can be daunting, so my approach is to never forget what it is like to sit in the client’s chair. Whether you're going through separation and divorce, experiencing abuse, depression, trauma, generally feeling sad or struggling with other emotional issues, I can help. I am here for You.
I know that the decision to seek therapy and to find a suitable therapist can be daunting, so my approach is to never forget what it is like to sit in the client’s chair. Whether you're going through separation and divorce, experiencing abuse, depression, trauma, generally feeling sad or struggling with other emotional issues, I can help. I am here for You.
0131 357 6150 View 0131 357 6150
Photo of Stuart P Morgan-Ayrs Frssa Frsph, MSc
Stuart P Morgan-Ayrs Frssa Frsph
MSc
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH2
My clients have experienced trauma, neglect, abuse or Adverse Childhood Experiences. Main specialism: Complex Trauma (C-PTSD) & disassociation, depression, NEAD, anxiety, OCD, eating & mood disorders, flashbacks, relationships. Many have multiple diagnosis, underpinned by trauma or emotional "lack". Many have ADHD or ASD. Welcome: students, LGB & poly, ex forces, domestic violence survivors. Specialist post grad certifications include; Trauma, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, ASD, ADHD, Mood Disorders & Integrative Therapy. Many have had therapy before & now want specialist help. I support LGB & Kink.
My clients have experienced trauma, neglect, abuse or Adverse Childhood Experiences. Main specialism: Complex Trauma (C-PTSD) & disassociation, depression, NEAD, anxiety, OCD, eating & mood disorders, flashbacks, relationships. Many have multiple diagnosis, underpinned by trauma or emotional "lack". Many have ADHD or ASD. Welcome: students, LGB & poly, ex forces, domestic violence survivors. Specialist post grad certifications include; Trauma, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, ASD, ADHD, Mood Disorders & Integrative Therapy. Many have had therapy before & now want specialist help. I support LGB & Kink.
0131 322 1320 View 0131 322 1320
Photo of Lynn Hunter, MBACP, Counsellor
Lynn Hunter
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH8  (Online Only)
I have further training in domestic abuse work.
I offer therapy to individuals and couples facing difficulties with their relationships, life and career choices. I believe communication, or lack of, is often at the root of many problems. It can be difficult to express our feelings and often we don't feel that we are heard or understood by the the important people in our lives. It may be that you have low self esteem and find relationships of all kinds difficult. You may be scared or perhaps you don't feel valued or cherished in your relationship. I will help you to explore the reasons behind this and work with you so that you can become the person you would like to be.
I have further training in domestic abuse work.
I offer therapy to individuals and couples facing difficulties with their relationships, life and career choices. I believe communication, or lack of, is often at the root of many problems. It can be difficult to express our feelings and often we don't feel that we are heard or understood by the the important people in our lives. It may be that you have low self esteem and find relationships of all kinds difficult. You may be scared or perhaps you don't feel valued or cherished in your relationship. I will help you to explore the reasons behind this and work with you so that you can become the person you would like to be.
0131 510 4413 View 0131 510 4413

See more therapy options for Edinburgh

Domestic Abuse Counsellors

What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?

Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?

Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?

Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?

It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.